| Car Life
do-it-yourself-video-series

Are you the type of person who likes to roll up your sleeves and do it yourself? Direct Auto Insurance’s new video series shows you how to do everything on your car, from changing spark plugs to replacing brake pads. Before you know it, you’ll be saving time and money—and gaining a sense of accomplishment!

The video below tackles one of the most critical car maintenance tasks: changing your oil. Ask almost any mechanic and they’ll tell you why oil changes are important. Even so, you don’t have to spend between $30 and $70 to get your oil changed every few thousand miles. You can do it at home in four easy steps. Watch our DIY oil change video to see how!

4 Steps to Change Your Own Oil

Step 1: Pull drain plug and drain the old oil.

Step 2: Remove the old filter.

Step 3: Install new filter and replace drain plug.

Step 4: Fill with new oil.

Why are oil changes important? 

Motor oil does three key things for your engine:

  • It lubricates all the engine parts to keep them running smoothly.
  • It absorbs heat from the engine to prevent overheating.
  • It gets rid of harmful sludge and other accumulating debris.

Aside from the benefits of motor oil for your engine, an oil change also gives you better fuel economy and a good opportunity to give your engine a quick visual check-up. It’s a really cheap way to help keep your engine running as it should.

How often should you change your oil?

Different vehicles have different oil change intervals. Most auto shops will recommend driving between 3,000 to 8,000 miles before getting an oil change. Be sure to check your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule.

When it’s time to change your oil, your car will probably let you know. Some vehicles come with a maintenance reminder that will light up on the dashboard when it’s time for an oil change. Occasionally, you may see an oil level warning light. That means you should get an oil change ASAP—at home or at a local auto shop!

In rare circumstances, your engine may start making strange noises, like ticking or knocking. In this case, to avoid serious engine damage, head straight to an auto shop near you.

The best way to know if you need your oil changed? Check it! Don’t wait for a dashboard light or engine noise. Make it a habit to check your motor oil once a month. The process shouldn’t take longer than 10 minutes from start to finish.

You can save money with DIY oil changes, but also with car insurance from Direct Auto Insurance. Call 1-877-463-4732, get a quote online, or come into a location near you today!

In the meantime, what other things would you like to know about your car? Do you have any good DIY tips? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

For more information, check out our blog called Why Are Oil Changes Important? in the Car Care section on Direct Connect. Our How to Check Your Car’s Oil guide will walk you through the simple steps!